Is an Australian Cattle Dog a good family dog?

The Australian Cattle Dog: Family Dog and Intelligent Companion. Australian Cattle Dogs, also called Blue Heelers, are extremely alert, pleasant pups with keen intelligence and a fierce sense of loyalty. These faithful friends are not considered aggressive and can be an excellent fit for families with kids.

What is the demeanor of an Australian Cattle Dog?

Bred to perform demanding tasks, the Australian cattle dog is extremely alert, intelligent, watchful and courageous. Highly trustworthy and reliable, they have a tenacious sense of duty. Loyal to their owners and wary of strangers, they are fiercely protective when used as a watch dog, although they are not barkers.

Are Australian Cattle Dogs difficult?

A challenging combination of cleverness and hard-headedness, Australian Cattle Dogs will test members of the family during adolescence and must be handled with firm, consistent leadership. These versatile dogs can learn and do a great deal in the right hands, but they will run right over hapless owners.

Are Australian Cattle Dogs high maintenance?

Blue heelers are not high maintenance. Bathe them as necessary, trim their nails once a month, brush their teeth, and clean their ears on occasion to promote wellness.

Do cattle dogs pick a favorite person?

While their first love is any kind of activity, the Australian Cattle Dog is equally devoted to family, sometimes choosing one family member as her person and following that person everywhere, a trait that has earned ACDs the nickname “velcro dogs.” ACDs cherish spending time with people and should not be left alone …

Are cattle dogs biters?

However, your Australian Cattle Dog also seems to enjoy biting. It may have started with gentle nibbles when you were playing, but now it has become an aggressive and persistent habit. It means you’re on edge whenever a guest reaches down to stroke your pup.

What age do Cattle Dogs calm down?

At what age do cattle dogs calm down? Most Australian Cattle Dogs will begin to calm down on their own around 2 years of age, and will be on their way to emotional maturity at about 3 or 4.

Why are Australian Cattle Dogs so aggressive?

A considerable amount of this behavior is inherited. Cattledogs were bred to control large herds and to protect animals and property from thieves, so working dogs are supposed to be suspicious of strangers and to protect territory. Dogs who are friendly to strangers are not much good at their jobs.

Are cattle dogs clingy?

Breeds like German Shepherds and Australian cattle dogs also become clingy because of their selective breeding to work closely with their owners. Sick or old dogs: When dogs become sick or old they become clingier. Sick dogs who are in pain or don’t feel good feel comforted when close to their owners.